By Abubakar Yunusa
When Dr Emomotimi Agama assumed office as Director-General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in April 2024, expectations were high. Barely a year later, his leadership has begun to redefine how the nation’s capital market works—making it faster, smarter, and more inclusive.
One of Agama’s earliest moves was to simplify approvals for companies raising capital. What once took nearly a year now takes just 14 days. The reform has been hailed as a signal of efficiency and a shift away from bureaucracy.
Agama believes Nigeria must not be left behind in the digital finance revolution. He projects digital assets could be worth $10 trillion globally by 2030. Under his leadership, SEC has created frameworks for tokenised securities and stablecoins, while approving local digital exchanges like Quidax and Busha.
For him, the goal is clear: foster innovation while protecting investors from fraud and market shocks.
SMEs remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, yet many struggle to access funding. Agama has launched the Listings Growth Initiative to bring these businesses into the capital market, giving them opportunities to grow, create jobs, and boost the economy.
“This is about inclusion,” he stresses. “The capital market must work for both big corporations and small entrepreneurs.”
The passage of the Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 has been described by Agama as “a transformative step.” The new law aligns Nigeria’s markets with international standards, strengthens regulatory enforcement, and expands access for investors.
Analysts believe it could mark a turning point for transparency and investor confidence.
With the shadow of scandals like the CYBEX fraud still looming, Agama has made investor education a top priority. Through campaigns and awareness programmes, SEC is teaching Nigerians about opportunities, risks, and the consequences of illegal activities.
The goal, Agama says, is to build a market where trust is as valuable as capital.
Agama’s influence extends beyond Nigeria. As Vice-Chairman of IOSCO’s Africa/Middle East Regional Committee, he is shaping regional policies and strengthening cooperation among regulators across borders.
Looking ahead, Agama is steering SEC towards embracing emerging technologies such as blockchain and even quantum computing. For him, innovation, transparency, and inclusivity are not just buzzwords—they are the pillars of a market designed to serve all Nigerians.
“Our mission is simple,” Agama told stakeholders recently.
“To create a resilient capital market where every Nigerian has a stake in prosperity.”
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